What can we scrutinise

Wokingham Borough Council’s overview and scrutiny management committee is inviting the public to submit possible topics for their work programme for the coming municipal year (2016/17).

One of the jobs of the committee is to scrutinise issues of interest or concern, affecting residents, which have been brought to its attention by councillors, civic officers and the wider community.

Recent reviews include commuter parking, flooding, community safety and the integration of health and social care. All subjects are welcome, but the committee can only carry out a review if a topic is something the council has influence over and is able to do something about.

The committee has no power to consider complaints in relation to specific individuals, or matters affecting planning or licensing applications.

“Overview and scrutiny is one of the ways you can help make sure the council and those taking decisions are accountable to the community and that the council learns as an organisation,” said Andrew Moulton, head of governance and improvement services.

“The public has a crucial role in guiding the work of this committee. We want to hear from you what we should be looking at during the coming year.”

The committee is due to consider review suggestions at its meeting on 31 May. The deadline for submitting ideas is 13 May.